New Mexico Text Messaging and Cell Phone Laws

New Mexico does not have a state-wide law that bans all drivers from using a cell phone or texting.

New Mexico remains one of the dozen or so states with no restrictions on texting while driving. With the exception of novice drivers, there is no state-wide
prohibition on cell phone or texting use while driving in New Mexico. However
there are cell phone and texting prohibitions based on local ordinances in
Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Las Cruces, Gallup, Taos and Espanola. State-wide, novice
drivers are prohibited from texting while driving.

Cell Phone Use

With the exception of certain local ordinances (see above)
and novice drivers, there is no handheld cell phone prohibition for any drivers
in New Mexico.

Texting Laws

With the exception of certain local ordinances and novice
drivers – drivers with learner’s permits or intermediate licenses – there is no
prohibition on texting while driving in New Mexico.

Bus Drivers

All New Mexico bus drivers are permitted to use cell phones and
to text while driving

How is it Enforced?

New Mexico’s novice texting and cell phonr laws are
considered “primary” laws. A primary law means that an officer can pull a
novice over for the offense without having to witness some other violation.
That is, the officer sees a novice driver texting and issues a citation.

Other New Mexico Information on this Website

Follow the links below to get additional information surrounding driving laws in New Mexico.